When it comes to replacing teeth, many people opt for dental implants for their permanence. This is through a natural process known as osseointegration where the metal and bone fuse naturally, appearing as normal teeth. The process involves the integration of the metal implant with the jaw and bone structure. Both are anchored and permanently integrated into the bone. This natural fit is one of the main reasons why they are preferred by many.
However, there are still other viable options you can opt for. Most of these alternatives are non-invasive and this means that, unlike dental implants, there is no need to undergo surgery. They are also cheaper or more comfortable to install with some like dentures that require you to do it yourself, as they can be removed at will. However, experts still recommend dental implants as the best option for replacing teeth because of the numerous benefits. If you want to replace a lost tooth, visit it Concord dental implants for professional dental services.
Below we analyze the different alternatives available for those who do not want to follow the path of dental implants:
Dental prostheses
These are removable dentures designed to replace missing teeth. You’ve probably seen an old grandmother accidentally drop her teeth in a movie. Dental prostheses are made of plastic, metal or a mixture of two. Compared to dental implants and bridges, they are the most cost-effective solution for those looking for dental replacement alternatives. Patients can also choose the material they prefer based on cost.
Prostheses can be partial or complete. Partial dentures are perfect when a patient has some remaining teeth. Therefore, patients use partial dentures to cover only the area with missing teeth. On the other hand, full dentures are used by edentulous patients. The patient in this case has no teeth and needs to replace all his teeth with removable ones.
Dental bridges
They are used to fill a gap resulting from a lack of teeth. If one or more teeth are missing and are adjacent to each other, a dental bridge is used to fill the gap. Compared to implants, dental bridges are more affordable, so they are considered a great alternative. Only implants work, both on a practical and aesthetic level.
Dental bridges are placed in the anchor teeth, also known as abutments. These teeth must be shaved to ensure that the bridge has a perfect grip and is perfectly secured. Dental bridges can be fixed or glued. Fixed bridges attach to existing teeth. However, as they present an additional load on existing teeth, they last little with an average lifespan of ten to twelve years. Support teeth can also end up being damaged by the extra weight and chiseling that is done to prepare them to grab the bridges. The stickers, as their name suggests, are temporarily placed in a dental space. They can be easily removed and are a perfect alternative if fewer teeth are missing.
Root canal therapy
If a tooth is damaged or infected from the root, it can be difficult to treat. Root canal therapy literally kills the tooth. When experts do this, the crown is left standing and supports all the functions of the tooth just like a normal tooth. Sometimes the tooth is covered by a new crown that acts as a reinforcement. A root canal is not only cheaper compared to dental implants, but you can also preserve your natural tooth.
You can leave the dental cavity empty
Some people prefer to leave the tooth gap missing, especially if the gap is not visible. This can be a perfect option if both the upper and lower teeth are missing. However, if only one tooth is missing, there is a problem with the remaining tooth. It is important to note that as there are no teeth to grind or grasp for the remaining tooth, it tends to continue to grow and may also need to be removed at some point. The gap left by a missing tooth could also cause other teeth to loosen and even move due to available space.
Whatever method you choose to replace a missing tooth, always remember that dental plants, even if they are expensive, present a more permanent solution. Not only are they easy to maintain as they attach to the jaw, but they also make it easier to eat a variety of foods compared to uncomfortable dentures. Whichever option you choose, weigh the pros and cons first by putting your comfort above everything else.
